Pakistan has ranked as country most affected by terrorism

By Themba Hlophe

Pakistan has ranked as the most affected country by terrorism for the first time, according to the latest Global Terrorism Index 2026 report released by the Institute for Economics and Peace. The report highlights a notable rise in violence across the country, with terrorism related deaths increasing by six percent to reach 1,139 in 2025.

The Global Terrorism Index, which evaluates 163 countries representing nearly the entire global population, measures the impact of terrorism based on four key indicators. These include the number of incidents, fatalities, injuries, and hostages. Pakistan’s rise to the top of the index marks a significant shift, as it surpasses Burkina Faso, which had previously held the highest ranking for terrorism impact.

According to the report, the surge in violence is closely tied to Pakistan’s strained relations with neighboring Afghanistan, as well as the growing activity of militant groups operating within its borders. Among these groups, the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan has been identified as the deadliest, both within the country and as one of the most lethal organizations globally. The group is ranked as the third deadliest worldwide.

The findings show that deaths from terrorism in Pakistan have reached their highest level since 2013. In total, the country recorded 1,045 terrorist incidents in 2025, reflecting a steady escalation in both frequency and severity of attacks. Analysts note that this trend underscores deepening security challenges, particularly in regions bordering Afghanistan.

The report provides further insight into the role of the Tehreek i Taliban Pakistan, commonly referred to as TTP, in driving the increase in violence. Since 2009, the group has been responsible for more than 67 percent of all terrorist attacks in Pakistan. Its influence far exceeds that of other militant organizations, including the Balochistan Liberation Army, which is identified as the second most active group in the country. The TTP has carried out roughly five times as many attacks as the BLA over the same period.

In 2025 alone, the TTP significantly expanded its operations. The number of attacks attributed to the group rose by 24 percent, increasing from 481 incidents in 2024 to 595 in 2025. Notably, all of these attacks were carried out within Pakistan, with a strong concentration in the northwestern province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This region, which borders Afghanistan, has long been a hotspot for militant activity due to its complex terrain and strategic location.

The Global Terrorism Index also compares the TTP with other major militant groups worldwide. It notes that among the four deadliest organizations globally including Islamic State, Jamaat Nusrat Al Islam wal Muslimeen, TTP, and al Shabaab, the TTP was the only group to record an increase in attacks over the past year. This trend sets it apart and signals a growing threat within Pakistan’s borders.

Security experts suggest that the combination of regional instability, internal security gaps, and the resurgence of militant networks has contributed to the worsening situation. The report warns that unless these underlying factors are addressed, Pakistan may continue to face elevated levels of terrorism in the coming years.

The findings of the Global Terrorism Index 2026 serve as a reminder of the evolving nature of global terrorism and the challenges faced by countries at the frontline of this issue. For Pakistan, the report underscores the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to counter militant activity and restore stability.

*Themba Hlophe is an academic and political analyst.